NUSA announces Bob Jeffrey as new MLS Next Director!
A proven leader in global player development, Bob brings world-class experience to our MLS NEXT program.
This appointment marks another major step forward in our mission to deliver the highest standard of player development.
Alan O’Connor, who has been serving as Interim MLS Next Director, will be transitioning out of that role to focus fully on his responsibilities as NUSA’s Technical Director. In this capacity, he will continue leading the development and implementation of our club-wide standards and curriculum, while also remaining actively involved in coaching within the MLS Next program at NUSA.
“Bob is a class act with a very impressive background in the game. He has coaching experience managing teams at the Professional and National team level. Most importantly, he supports NUSA’s mission, vision and goals as well as the founding principles and core values of our organization. I couldn’t be more proud of our coaching staff, club leadership and adding Bob as part of our team” – Robbie Stewart, NUSA Executive Director
NUSA has a full MLS Next Pathway in 2025/26 and is the only club in Middle TN, with the exception of Nashville Soccer Club, in the top tier of MLS Next.
Key Experience:
• UEFA Champions League coaching experience
• First Team Manager – Welsh Premier League
• Academy Director – Carmarthen Town FC
• Head of Soccer Operations – Llanelli AFC
• Wales U18 National Team Manager (2010–2016)
• Wales Women’s National Team Goalkeeper Coach (2004–2016)
• U19 Coach – Swansea City AFC
• Coach Educator and Mentor
Licensure:
• UEFA A License – 2010
• USSF Youth A License – 2020
• English FA A Goalkeeping License – 2011
• UEFA Futsal License – 2011
• Wales Academy License – 2010
• UEFA Goalkeeping Instructor Certificate – 2004
Awards & Distinctions:
• Welsh National Coach of the Year – 2007
• Wales Performance Coach of the Year – 2011
• Bryn Isaac Award – 2010
• Welsh Region Coach of the Year – 2010